of what a meaningful group should be, and how teenagers can heal the self and others in a
group they identify with.
Cruwys noted in the research that social identities help people with depression
through “provide meaning to life, encourage the provision and receipt of social support,
facilitate social influence, and engender a sense of belongingness” (Cruwys 13). From my
own experience as a teenager, identifying myself in a safe, comforting, and supporting
social group heals. Just as what Cruwys noted, I feel so much better belonging in a group,
knowing that there are things that matter and there are people who care. Next time when
you feel suffocated by stress, don’t panic, breathe, and think about the meaningful groups
you feel connected with. Just remember, you are strong and capable.